Why I Love Writing And Publishing On HubPages

Updated on October 4, 2014

It Was Love At First Sight

I love writing and publishing on HubPages.

I Clicked On The HubPages Ad

I first heard about HubPages while browsing my Facebook feed. I noticed an ad in the side bar that mentioned writing and publishing. I can't remember the exact wording, but it was something to the effect of 'make money writing blogs'. I had recently been searching, 'make money writing blogs', and lo and behold, the Google gods were tracking my dreams and aspirations. There it was nicely displayed at perfect eye level and I took the bite and clicked on the HubPages sponsored ad. The story now begins.

Learn From The Best Hubbers

I was taken to the HubPages.com site and found myself immersed in pages of unimaginable delight for any writer, as the topics were many and the publishing platform was so user friendly that I couldn't wait to begin writing. I wrote my first hub before doing my homework, (more about that later). After I wrote it, I decided to take a more thorough tour and learn the ropes. I read a number of hubs which I found both informative and humorous. Some of these people really know how to write, I thought. It was engaging fun to see the various avatars and the accompanying screen names. I remember clicking on the Hubbers category and reading hubs from the Best category. A few of those hubbers would become my unofficial Hubpages mentors. I read all of darkside's HubPages related hubs, then moved on to another prolific, best hubber named relache.

I have to admit, I had no clue what some of the 'lingo' meant. My only knowledge of making money with Google adsense was from watching a Youtube video by some 'young thing' sitting in front of her computer talking about the thousands of dollars anyone could make by readers clicking on google ads. I thought it was nothing but a scam, something that only certain kind of people would bother making videos about; how simple it is to make ridiculously large amounts of 'passive income' from blogging.

Zappos Interview With Paul Edmondson - CEO of HubPages

Build A Firm Foundation On HubPages

So my introduction to writing and publishing on HubPages was from reading darkside and relache, and by reading the HP guidelines which can be found in the Learning Center, which is accessible at the bottom of each page. I read the brief bios of the HP team and read all of the related hubs to hubbing by the CEO, Paul Edmondson. I figured if anyone knew how to write and make money here, it was the top dog. I still go back to these three people's hubs whenever I need clarification or need to be reminded of a specific function or tip. Yes, there were and are many other hubbers I have learned from, and their knowledge has helped form my HubPages foundation. If you haven't read their hubs, I highly recommend taking the time to make their hubs part of your 'homework'. They are successful hubbers and their hubs are top notch.

Sitting In A Park Outside Of Paris, France- My First Hub

Parc de Sceaux

I Wrote My First Hub

As mentioned above, I wrote my first hub before understanding exactly what I was doing. I wrote it more as a journal entry, or like a blog. It is about sitting in a park outside of Paris, France. I was yet to understand that it's not really a blogging site. What I did find amazing was the ease of writing and publishing. Although my first hub was written directly into one capsule, I would recommend first writing a draft on Notepad or in a separate word processing document. Then all one has to do is copy and paste the article into separate capsules. It helps to have separate capsules to break up the reading, to place photos aligned with capsules, and to give the capsule a sub-heading which contains keywords.

I didn't receive my first comment or fan until 3 days later when I published my second hub about Parisian women. I was so excited that someone read my hub and commented! Then she became my first fan (follower)! And the comments slowly started appearing on my first hub as well. Now I didn't feel so alone in the big HubPages community. I wouldn't even venture into the forums with only one fan. Some of them had hundreds, even thousands of fans. I read from a distance and wasn't ready for the 'HP forums', which sometimes remind me of the forums of Gladiator days!

Choose Topics With Global Interest

Write about topics and subjects that you know or can market well

Choosing Topics For Hubs

Most of my early hubs are about my trip to Paris, France, and French culture from an American perspective. People always love to read about Paris and the French culture, so I have enjoyed writing and sharing on this topic. I had read that it was best to write about subjects that you know well, so I started writing about early childhood education,parenting, music, health and fitness, among others, since I have experience and knowledge with these subjects. These are evergreen topics which will always be searched from a global audience. I want to focus on subjects which all people may have an interest in searching.

My teaching background has been very helpful in presenting a topic and writing a structured hub which is easy to read, informative and hopefullyinteresting enough to keep the reader's attention. We all know the attention span of many is centered around small bits of fragmented sentences, so holding attention is key in online writing. But I have observed that those who are interested enough to search for some of the topics I write about generally have a longer attention span than those searching for which product to buy. Product hubs and comparison hubs need to be shorter in length and structured in a way that make it easy for the reader to find pertinent information. Informational hubs can be longer, but still need to be formatted for ease of reading. I have a few that probably need some tweaking in that regard. But in reality, who among us, have perfect hubs?

Write Down Topics When Inspired

It helps to have a notebook or file to write down topic ideas.

Find Topics Through Inspiration

Another way I find topics is through inspiration. I scan major ads in the New York Times and notice headlines for subjects that are important to me. I may not be thinking of a specific topic, but when that 'bell' goes off and inspires me to take a second look, I write down the topic in a notebook if I think it would make a great hub. One of my most successful hubs was inspired by an article in the NYT. It proved to be a good move on my part to write the hub before the product was released. I had enough information to inform the public and hopefully make sales once the product was released. Trending can be extremely successful if it's something that can have evergreen interest and value. The key is using strong keywords, writing adequate content and writing as soon as the topic is presented. You can add more content and update later if necessary.

Success Can Be Found Writing On HubPages

Success is an attitude, a responsibility and a reward.

Make Money With Google Adsense and Amazon

It took a while to get those first few clicks. And who in the world wouldimagine that making a few cents could give cause to celebration and so much excitement, that some have posted threads about their first clicks? What is even stranger is that other hubbers get just as excited, and congratuate each other on their first money producing clicks, encouraging them that their dreams are starting to unfold.

My full-time job is not online writing. When I reached my first payouts with Google and Amazon, I was very excited. I was amazed at how those pennies and dollars could add up. And it is true what other hubbers say; once you reach your first payouts, subsequent payouts come much quicker. I like to record monthly income with statistics of how many clicks,which hubs are producing 'nice' clicks and which search words are bringing productive traffic.

It's such a satisfying feeling knowing that someone bought something from one of the Amazon capsules, and I always feel a sense of accomplishment that a viewer found what they were looking for while visiting my hubs. Hopefully they will return or visit another hub for further reading. Some of my hubs are not written primarily to make money, but I almost always monetize the hub because you never know what will inspire someone while reading.

HubPages Earning Program Is Another Money Maker

Since I first published this hub, HubPages has added its own ad program based on impressions. The advertiser pays a certain amount according to number of impressions on the page. It's a great way to add supplemental income if your hubs receive a lot of traffic. It's also a great incentive to produce better quality hubs since HP has also moved to sub domains. If your sub domain receives decent traffic, it's great to group relevant hubs together and capitalize on ad impressions as an additional source of income. I recently read of one very prolific hubber (over 800 hubs) earning $1000.00 from the HP ad program alone, in one month!

HubPages has also introduced Ebay into their HubPages Earning Program. More information is available in the Learning Center. Another reason to love HP, they're constantly innovating along with the quickly changing online, content publishing world.

Thank You HubPages Community

Love, light, Rebekah | Source

Fifty Hubs Later- Why I Love HubPages

I can't bring a close to this hub without mentioning the benefits of being an active part of the HubPages community. Whether it is by reading and commenting on other hubs, rating up great hubs, answering questions, visiting the forums at times, Hub hopping and helping to flag obvious spam, meeting new friends from around the globe, participating in contests, etc. I have found many amazing fellow hubbers and broadened my appreciation for respecting the different cultures and beliefs represented.

We live in an increasingly smaller global society which brings us closer together, and understanding, or at least attempting to understand the many faces of belief and issues which confront us all continues to inspire me and is among the reasons why I love writing and publishing on HubPages. Thanks to the fantastic staff, all of the hubbers and a special thanks to those who follow my writings!

Thank You For Reading And Happy Hubbing! 120 comments

Maybe I'm still a HubPages virgin of the worst order, but when I tried to be an Amazon affiliate, there were so many questions and boxes I had to fill in and words I didn't understand, that I really lost the will to live.

Maybe I'll try again when I'm a grown-up.

sunforged 5 years ago from Sunforged.com

Congratulations on reaching 50! It seems those facebook feeds show all sorts of great stuff, I followed one here :)

I enjoyed reading about your experiences here at Hubpages, its always nice to be reminded that many of the writers here are real people who enjoy sharing their stories and write for the joy of it, Im happy to see your getting some money out of the deal too!

Its great to see you point out your understanding of YOUR reader and how that reader may be different than the norm. Its so important to understand what type of reader you are attracting and react accordingly.

I agree, you write the type of hub that demands the reader to stay and read! See ya at 100!

timorous 5 years ago from Me to You

Oh..that's lovely rebekah. I totally agree...and warm hugs right back to ya. I've read many of your hubs, and I must say you're a very positive addition to the Hubber community. Nice going, and best of luck with all your future writing.

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

thanks twilight, it's always nice to see you and you're fast with the comments! Did you read through the Amazon affiliate section in the Learning Center? If not, it may be helpful for you. It's amazing what people will buy!

good luck, you'll get it!

@sunforged, so nice to see you come in from FB! did you hover or click on the blue 'hubbers' word about helpful hubbers? you are definitely one of them who has helped so much for the entire community. I really appreciate your time, effort and patience with instructing some of us non-commercial writers! Thanks so much for your much appreciated comment. :)

@hi timorous, thanks so much. I always enjoy seeing you around HP and get a big kick out of your avatar. thank you for taking the time to read and comment and happy hubbing to you!

Congrats on the big "50" hubs. Isn't this community awesome. The writing, the people, the support...I could go on and on. Thanks for sharing your milestone.

katiem2 5 years ago from I'm outta here

This is a wonderful mile stone and I'm so happy for you and all the other hubbers who are aware of you. You're a wonderful person and hubber, so glad to have met you and enjoy your work. May you future be rich with more and more amazing hubs. :) Katie

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Twilight, If there's anyway I can assist with the Amazon issue, let me know. :]

@thanks Minnetonka for the nice words! Yes, it really is an awesome, wonderful community. It's nice to have a place like this to write plus make money, learn, meet people all over the world, on and on. Thank you for sharing my milestone with me!

@hi katiem, thank you! your words are much appreciated and I enjoy your presence here on HP! You have some dynamo hubs and a great personality. :]

Darlene Sabella 5 years ago from Hello, my name is Toast and Jam, I live in the forest with my dog named Sam ...

My lovely friend, I aways enjoyed your hubs even your first. We all grow up and learn here, and it feels like we are all classmates for high school. And I know we will all be friends for many many years. Love & peace darski, rate up

De Greek 5 years ago from UK

So you have actually made money? That's wonderful, especially for an obviously talented, kind and articulate person such as yourself :-)

Well done on your 50th :-)

vydyulashashi 5 years ago from Hyderabad,India

Wow what an amazing guide. I will definitely follow these and congrats on your half century.

God Bless You!

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

darski, how very true about learning along the way. I think I'm still probably in the freshman class! When I see what some accomplish here, it seems so out of reach, and yet I know it certainly is possible. I keep learning like the rest and thankfully, there are so many fantastic, helpful hubbers who share their knowledge freely. I'm always happy to see you and appreciate your words and friendship!

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Thank you De Greek! Well, I'm not driving the latest model with my cash flow, yet, but money can be made. even with non-product hubs. I am going to write some product related hubs in line with the major topics I've chosen so I can link them together. We'll see what happens. It's always a pleasure and delight to have your presence at one of my hubs. BTW, the wedding was amazing!! Greek dancing also!! :]

@Thank you vydyulashashi! What a very nice compliment and I'm so glad to know my experience can help you. I highly recommend reading the hubbers I mentioned, including sunforged. There are so many more here at the site. Sometimes I wish I could spend more time reading the many different writers here, maybe a day at HP! Happy hubbing!

Tuesdays child 5 years ago from In the garden

I am very new to HP, but am really enjoying it. Lots of great folks/comments/hubs. Your hub was a great read. Thank you for the info!

De Greek 5 years ago from UK

I shall hold it against you for not sending me an invitation :-))

saddlerider1 5 years ago

Rebekah congratulations on reaching your 50th hub. You are a prolific writer and so many of us have benefited from your educational hubs, even though I am not on the Hubs for the earning aspect, it's a pleasant surprise for me to see my earnings at $22 after being here only nine months.

I am not a product or how to do writer, I simply am a humble poet and scribe. I have however developed a loyal following and I certainly appreciate your comments left from time to time.

The hubs have a bit of everything for everyone, I respect all peoples here who come to write, no matter what it's for. Some are simply here to earn some extra supplement earnings, others like myself to hone my skills as a writer and learn from so many talented writers like yourself.

I enjoy this site immensely and look forward to adding more of my scribes as time permits, so my friend thank you for following me and I will always read your hubs, they are filled with so much great learning skills and advice and helpful hints and tips. Hugs to you, enjoy Super Bowl weekend.

Stan Fletcher 5 years ago from Nashville, TN

Congrats on 50!

Genna East 5 years ago from Massachusetts, USA

Congratulations and kudos on posting your 50th hub. As a newbie, I'm only on #7, and I can't imagine reaching 50 at this point in time. You go girl! :)

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Hi Tuesdays'child, Thank you for reading and taking the time to comment! Welcome to HP. I'm sure you're going to love it here and discover some amazingly great people and learn in the process. Best of luck to you!

@De Greek, maybe this will help; whenever I see a movie about Greece, I think about you!

@saddlerider1, so lovely to see you here, I always enjoy reading your hubs and seeing your comments throughout the community. You have earned your loyal following and how wonderful that we can meet other writers from around the globe. Keep writing and inspiring. Thank you! :]

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Thanks Stan! Always a pleasure!

@Genna East, thank you! I appreciate the congrats and hope you enjoy it here as much as so many of us do. I remember being at #7, and that's fine. Write at your own pace and give it your best shot. I know many write too quickly and it shows in the quality of their hubs. I also join the HubMob at times and have found it a great way to write on topics of interest. You can see the weekly topic in the forums. Enjoy and keep writing!

Winsome 5 years ago from Southern California by way of Texas

Rebekah, congratulation on your well deserved success and as the Merchant of Venice said: "I wish you all the joy that you can wish." =:)

Green Lotus 5 years ago from Atlanta, GA

Congratulations rebekah! You always write such engaging Hubs it's no wonder you have come to enjoy so many rewards here on HubPages. I'm tipping towards my 100th and although I've hardly made enough to buy a day's worth of groceries I'm happy to be here and so glad to have "met" you too.

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

thank you winsome! It's people like you that make HP a great place to write and make friends. I love your writing and am always happy to see a virtual visit on one of my hubs. I love the quote, thank you. xo

@green lotus, thanks! You've always been one of my favorite hubbers and you're an excellent writer. I congratulate you on your recent front page hub! That's quite an achievement now that it seems harder to get that front page promo. Good work! I appreciate your kind words. :]

WildIris 5 years ago

Congratulations on fifty Hubs. Such a sweet Hub #50. I love the pictures and videos you included.

Thank you WildIris! I'm so glad you enjoyed it, including the pics and video. I've been waiting to write this hub once I hit #50, so it's written with a lot of heart. I appreciate your time in reading and commenting. :)

@rosariosblog, I like your name. Thank you for your kind words and I'm happy to hear the hub has inspired you to write and write. Keep writing and happy hubbing!

Victoria Stephens 5 years ago from London

Hi rebekahELLE,

I think my favourite thing about hubpages is the community, everyone is always very welcoming and up for a chat.xxx

gypsumgirl 5 years ago from Vail Valley, Colorado

Congratulations on #50 and your growing success. You are an inspiration! Thank you!

stricktlydating 5 years ago from Australia

It's wonderful to read about your journey here on HubPages and I always enjoy reading your Hubs. Best wishes!

douglas11 5 years ago from Decatur Il

I voted you up really nice to hear when someone else makes money congradulation. well done on the hub.

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Hi Victoria, I do agree! The HP community is a great place to network, make friends, chat and learn. People from all over the globe makes it a smaller world, doesn't it? :

@gysumgirl, thanks you!

@stricktlydating, it's nice to see you and thanks so much.

I also enjoy reading your helpful hubs.

Thanks douglas for the vote up! I'm happy to be able to share and thank everyone for helping to make HP a great place to publish our writing. Enjoy!

Diana Lee 5 years ago from Potter County, Pa.

I've been at hubpages 3 weeks and find it very enjoyable. I have a great deal to learn. I am so glad there are so many hubbers willing to teach the ropes to a newbie.

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Diana, Welcome to HP! It's a great place to write and has a very helpful community. If anything I can write helps others, I'm happy to help. I'm still learning more almost every day! Thanks for reading. :)

prasetio30 5 years ago from malang-indonesia

Fifty hub was good achievement for you. Not all of us always have spirit in writing and keep this passion always on fire. You are on the way in success and I believe you can do that. Promise me, all the money will follow, just never give up. I always support you from the back. God bless you. Vote up!

Prasetio

Mike's Corner 5 years ago from Maryland

Congratulations on your 50th hub, Rebekah, and for writing such a terrific hub about your experiences thus far. I love your poetry and Europe hubs, and I can't wait to read your next 50!

deyani 5 years ago

Hi rebekahELLE, congratulations on your 50 hubs! I just joined Hubpages today after hearing heaps of positive feedback and I'm loving it. Hope I can learn from you and other hubbers.

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Thank you Prasetio, I'm always happy to see your visit at one of my hubs! It's people like you that make HP a great place to write and meet other people worldwide. Thanks for such a nice comment!

Bonjour Mike's Corner and thank you so much! I appreciate your kind kudos! I am looking forward to writing the next 50. I also really enjoy reading your hubs!

Thank you deyani and welcome to HP! I'm sure you're going to love it here, it's a great place to write and I wish you the very best. Enjoy it! :]

Peter Owen 5 years ago from West Hempstead, NY

That's great. I'm still waiting for first Amazon sale as this is a benchmark for me. nice post

prairieprincess 5 years ago from Canada

Rebecca, I loved reading this, and your account of how you started. Isn't it hard to believe that there was a time we did not about Hubpages?

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Thanks Peter and prairieprincess for stopping by and reading. I appreciate your kind words. Yes, it is hard to believe, HP becomes part of our daily lives! happy hubbing. :)

I've had a few Amazon sales and even though it's a pittance, you're right it is cause for celebration! Now I'm waiting for those pennies and dollars to add up! Thoroughly enjoyed the Hub and looking forward to reading more! Thanks for the inspiration!

Mike Fuller 5 years ago from Indiana

Awesome Inspiring Hub. Great Job!

Rhonda Waits 5 years ago from The Emerald Coast

Congrats on your 50th hub and your success. For me hubs is just about sharing. I don't look at the money issue, I look at it for making new friends and having and extended family. Thanks for sharing.

Sweet wishes Rhonda

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Thanks lindacee for reading. I appreciate your comments. Yes, Amazon comes and goes. Mine has slowed down since the holidays, but hopefully will kick in again. Good luck and enjoy!

thanks Mike for stopping by and leaving a kudos! Best to you. :)

Thanks Rhonda, It is a wonderful place to meet new people, and you're so right; it does feel like family.

What a very nice message you have left! Sweet wishes for you also. :]

Docmo 5 years ago from UK

Congratulations on your half-century, RebekahElle, what a nice way to celebrate this. It is a lovely trip down the memory lane and I enjoyed reading your journey. ( the word I learnt comes from the French journée a trip made in a day...apt!)

Avamum 5 years ago from Canada

Congratulations to you, RebekaElle. Some very good points here - I will be sure to read more of your hubs as I strive for fifty hubs myself!

That's the way 5 years ago

You are just awesome! :) Congrats! The fact that you are making money with 50 hubs is awesome too! I would like to ask you something...

How much traffic you get from search engines and how much through referrals (percentages)?

Does your article pops up on the first page of google?

If not, how long does it take to get there?

Do you use backlinks?

Am I bothering you with these questions? :)))

Your article is informative enough already, but I'm one of those people who always have something to ask... Sorry...

I wish you to make many more hubs and earn a lot of money with them, so you could write from all around the world! :)

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Hi Docmo, thanks for stopping by and reading this hub dedicated to the HP community! I'm glad you enjoyed the trip down memory lane! Best to you!

Thanks Avamum, it's so nice to see you here. I'm glad to share the same tips others have shared with me. I wish you great success writing at HubPages. :)

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

WOW, thanks That's the way, I do appreciate your nice words. Everyone has their own style and goals in writing, which I do believe is important. Most of my traffic comes from search engines and then referrals. Yes, some of my hubs show up on P1. It varies with how long it takes to reach that position according to competition. I do use some backlinking, but I don't spend too much time placing backlinks. Personally, I like the links that come in from interest of others. :]

No, you didn't bother me, I'm happy to share. Thank you and good luck with HP. Enjoy!

tony0724 5 years ago from san diego calif

Eye like two right two !

ahostagesituation 5 years ago

Rebekah! In a culture that is becoming ever more illiterate, I was just so happy to see a post about people reading books that I had to contribute. So glad I saw your posting there too, (I just saw it), and I love your list. Somehow, I never read "The Little Prince" but I know I've heard enough to give it a try. I'm ordering books from Amazon at some point this AM, and that will be one. Thank you so much for the mail, also btw! And I look forward to seeing more of your writing. And...this is great! I also like hubpages for how user-friendly it is, and I'm a fan of the CEO and his wife, Robin, who might be one of the nicest people on earth. Met them at hubcamp, and if it comes to your city or anywhere close try and make it!

My Digest 5 years ago

Way to go!

*Misty

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Hey tony, lol, I'm glad you do!

@ahostagesituation- thanks for reading. It must have been great to meet the Edmondsons at a Hubcamp. The closest one to me is in Miami, which is quite a drive, but I would love to meet them.

You will love The Little Prince, a children's book written for adults!

@thanks for dropping by Misty.

Glenn Stok 5 years ago from Long Island, NY

Congrats on your 50th hub. I just completed my 50th also and I never stop learning on HubPages. I don't remember how I discovered HP but I think it was an ad, same as you.

Your hub is right on target and reinforces the power of HubPages. Such as the ability to change or add to hubs later. I find that to be a powerful tool. Especially that I can see what search terms people use to find my hubs. I can then go back and enhance the topic based on those keywords if they are on the subject.

Thanks for a great hub. Including the video of Edmondson's interview was a nice added touch. I enjoyed it and I voted up.

lbidd54 5 years ago from The beautiful Jersey Shore

Thanks for the uplifting, informative hub!

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Thanks Glen! congrats to you also on your 50th hub! I'll be sure to take a look! While HP is going through a change right now, I'm still quite happy to be writing here, and I thoroughly enjoy interaction with the fantastic HP community! Thanks again.

@Thank yo Ibidd54. I'm glad you found it helpful and uplifting! Enjoy!

furnitureman 5 years ago from Manila, Philippines

Thanks for another addition to my armory of information on HubPages. I am only five days old registrant here and I am not a native English speaker being a Filipino. How I wish that this community would be more than willing to admit me enthusiastically to the fold. More power and may God bless you. Good day.

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Thanks furnitureman. HP is a very welcoming community and you are still very new, so it takes time. I do recommend finding an image for your avatar in your profile. An image that represents you and your writing will help others notice you and your hubs!

Your hubs sound informative and helpful. Keep reading and learning from others. Observe layout of hubs, use of images and videos, etc. All of the tools HP offers the writer helps the hubs to look inviting and professional.

Good luck and welcome. Thank you for visiting my hub!

Phoebe Pike 5 years ago

Great job and I hope you continue writing! You are a very talented writer.

Hi, congratulations on reaching this the first on many milestones. To reach this point it takes dedication and time and persistance. But with your writing skills and the encouragement from fellow hubbers and your followers I have no doubt it wont be long before you are celebrating your 100th hub. Best wishes to you.

KoffeeKlatch Gals 5 years ago from Sunny Florida

Congratulations on reaching the big 50. There's no doubt about it HubPages is a terrific place to be. Before we know you you'll be celebrating your 100th, then 200th hub. Keep on writing.

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Thanks D.A.L.! Wow, I love your avatar, gorgeous. I appreciate your very kind words, and even more, I thank you for taking the time to read my 50th hub. I enjoy writing and publishing here and will start on #51 soon.

Hi KKG, I just had to use those initials for fun! :] Thanks so much for stopping by and leaving a congrats.

It's nice to see you here! Best to you! :)

Peggy W 5 years ago from Houston, Texas

Your 50th hub is a beauty! Congratulations! Like you, I love this community of writers and learn so much by reading hubs written from many different perspectives and from hubbers who live in various places around the world. Your hubs are a great addition and always a joy to read. Thanks! Here is to your next 50 and all the 50's to follow!

Genna East 5 years ago from Massachusetts, USA

Congratulations! I have always thought you are one of the best writers on the hub, and enjoy reading your contributions.

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Hi Peggy, Thanks! I think HP has such a warm, caring group of dedicated writers and I'm happy to be here along with other wonderful writers such as yourself! Write on! :)

Thank you Genna! What an amazing compliment. I think there are so many great writers here, I'm just happy to write in a community of such diverse talent, and with people from all around the world. Enjoy your weekend!

prasetio30 5 years ago from malang-indonesia

I agree with Genna East. You are one of the best writer on hubpages. I am proud to be your fans. I hope your passion in writing never end. Thank you very much. Congratulations and Success for you.

Prasetio,

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Prasetio, thank you for your generous words. It's always such a pleasure to know you have visited one of my hubs.

Your comments are sincere and always put a smile on my face. It's hubbers like you that make me happy to have found HubPages. We are able to connect with wonderful people we would never have the opportunity to meet! Thanks again and happy hubbing.

Ladybird33 5 years ago from Georgia USA

Very inspirational to us all. No matter how long we have been here. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and helping us all. My best to you, Ladybird

truthfornow 5 years ago from New Orleans, LA

Great advice and great work!

fastfreta 5 years ago from Southern California

rebekahELLE, this was a very interesting hub from start to finish. Like you said, we usually just read fragments of sentences, but with this hub I read it in it's entirety, I only do that when the article catches my interest from the start, and this one did.

You made a suggestion on how to find topics to write about, and I'm going to implement it, ("scan major ads in the New York Times and notice headlines for subjects that are important to me"). Again very good hub!

I don't know if I've told you before, but you're an awesome writer. Voted up/useful/awesome.

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Ladybird, thank you for your kind words. It's nice that HP has such a diverse community of really wonderful people writing here. Forward we go! Best to you also.

@truthfornow, thank you. I appreciate your taking the time to read and leave a comment. I love your avatar, it's beautiful.

@Thanks fastfreta! That is such a nice compliment. I really appreciate your words and taking the time to read the entire hub. It's true, isn't it, about how we tend to skim, unless it has our attention. I hope the suggestion works for you or at least can be helpful in looking for topics. After the Panda update, we need to think about our topics more carefully, I believe.

I'm always happy to see you around HP! Keep up the great work. :)

Bretsuki 5 years ago from California USA

Hello rebekahELLE,

I see from your profile that you and I joined Hubpages about the same time. I however merely lurked around and only began posting seriously in the last month.

Your hub has shown me how much I have to learn, but it also inspires me to learn.

That is the art of a great teacher. Since you say follow the best, I say add yourself to the list of Great Hubbers.

All the best

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

WOW, thanks Bretsuki, I appreciate such kind words! I missed this comment when you originally posted! I think right now we're all going through a learning curve with the recent changes with Google, etc. Keep writing and enjoying HP. :]

flode 5 years ago from Paris

This is so helpful for me, as I am just starting out. I didn't even think about monetizing! What a great community. Thanks again.

wingedcentaur 5 years ago from That Great Primordial Smash UP of This and That Which Gave Rise To All Beings and All Things!

Well, rebekahELLE, your teaching background you alluded to, certainly shows with this articulate, heartfelt essay of affection for the HubPages organization and community. You followed your own advice perfectly here; I am sort of reminded of an invocation LillyGrillzit gave, in one of her hubs, to "... write as though there are an army of English Teachers standing behind us with rulers raised."

Good job. Voted up for useful.

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Thanks so much flode! Yes, there's so much to learn, and there are lots of changes taking place. There are plenty of great hubbers and a wonderful community, including the HP staff. I'm glad you found this hub helpful.

wingedcentaur, Ha, what a great quote! Thanks for such a lovely comment and I appreciate that you took the time to read this tribute hub. It's all good if if helps others, and I'm just sharing what I've learned along the way. :]

susiebrown48 5 years ago from Clearwater, FL

Encouraging read! 6 Hubs down and profit of $0.12 and I thought I was a lunatic dancing a jig for my $0.12! Glad to see I'm not alone and looking forward to publishing more. Thank you!

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Hi susie! Hey, many of us know that dance! Who knew?? Thanks for reading, and I'm glad you found it encouraging.

Enjoy your time here at HP!

sriparna 5 years ago from New Delhi

A very inspiring hub and profile rebekahELLE! I have just got 20 hubs in my first year, I keep postponing hubactivity due to teaching workload, but now in the summers promised myself to make a comeback. You are one of those I would like to follow!

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Thanks sriparna, I understand it's hard sometimes to make time for publishing. Mine has been cut back because of my work load, but I love HP and plan to keep publishing here. I'm glad you found this hub inspiring and thanks for following. I'll be around soon to to check out your hubs! :]

liljen23 5 years ago from Shreveport,LA

Great hub Rebekah.. I loved it. You are awesome.It's a pleasure reading your hubs and learning from you and others.

Ebower 5 years ago from Georgia

These are some great tips even though I've been writing hubs for awhile. It reminds me of when I first started writing articles for hubpages a few years ago.

mitshell 5 years ago from worlwide

great hub full of information that inspires hubbers to write more.good

Alladream74 5 years ago from Oakland, California

Congrats on reaching 50 hubs. An inspiring read

ladyhowto4u 5 years ago

Congratulations on reaching this milestone! I appreciate you sharing the information about capsules, which I plan to put into practice.

--ladyhowto4u

RTalloni 5 years ago from the short journey

A great read for everyone, not just newbies. Congrats on your milestone!

ManuelAtt 5 years ago

Very motivating read, especially for someone who is just get started with hubpages like me! Looking forward to reading more of your hubs

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Thanks hubbers for reading and taking the time to comment. I'm glad to hear it is inspiring. I know plenty of hubbers have inspired me throughout my time here at HP. It's a great place to write and I've learned so much, and I enjoy the community. Best to each of you.

slaffery 5 years ago from Kansas, USA

Thank you for sharing this. I am new and have so many questions about how to do things on here. This was very helpful Voted up

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Thank you slaffery. There have been changes since I wrote this, but the principles still apply. I remember the feeling well of being new and having so many questions! I still have so much to learn. I'm glad you found some helpful suggestions here. Happy hubbing!

The Fastionista 5 years ago

What a great hub! I know what you mean about celebrating those first few pennies - I joined about a month ago so I'm at that beginning phase. Hope all is still going well for you-Cheers!

rebekahELLE 5 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Fastionista, thanks so much! I hope you enjoy your writing experience here on HP. It's a great place to write and publish and you will meet some fantastic people from around the world. Keep writing and celebrating. Life happens quickly!

kcamp01 5 years ago from Anniston, Alabama

Great article.

Vinaya Ghimire 5 years ago from Nepal

Very inspiring story. Two years later I also hope to write: Two years on I'm still on hubpages.

Or when I reach 50 hubs threshold. I hope to write a hub thanking writers, commentators and followers.

Thanks for sharing this amazing article.

cclitgirl 4 years ago from Western NC

Beautiful hub! Now, I have a burning question: how long did it take you to get 1293 followers with 58 hubs? I have 49 (working on my 50th today...whew!) but less than 10% of the followers you have. You are amazing! Of course, I've only been here two months, so that could have something to do with it. I do have to say, though, your writing often makes me think of the beach, the sun and the inspiration that you attempt to instill. I am inspired! :)

rebekahELLE 4 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Thanks for the comments, hubbers!

@cclitgirl, In answer to your burning question, it has taken as long as I've been here, which is 2 years and a couple of months. Not all followers truly follow, they simply follow anyone with a high score, etc. At two months, I'm sure I didn't have too many followers. Others will continue to find you and enjoy your work, and you will gain followers.

What a very nice comment to hear that my writing makes you think of the sun! That means a lot to me. I live in Florida because I love the sun, the light, the water, the beaches! I was born in the summer! :D

phdast7 4 years ago from Atlanta, Georgia

Belated Congratulations on your 50th HUB. An interesting, helpful, and informative read. Looking forward to reading more. Really good content and Hubs that are well written are important to me and clearly you can write very well. :)

rebekahELLE 4 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Thanks phdast7, I appreciate your time and comments. I wish I had more time to write. I always have ideas going on in my head, it's just trying to carve out a nice chunk of time to write and publish! Thanks so much for reading!

geetbhim 4 years ago from Ludhiana India

Hi rebekah! love your hub the way you presented it,it is inspiring too even I love to write and enjoying at HP.Thanks for sharing even I hope to reach the target of 50 hubs but seems quite difficult for me.

GmaGoldie 4 years ago from Madison, Wisconsin

rebekahELLE,

I love this place. It is my refuge, my hobby, my joy. I haven't seen the Zappos video - must view this later.

Thank you! Voted up! HubPages rocks!

MrsBrownsParlour 3 years ago from Chicagoland, Illinois

Helpful and encouraging---thank you! :-)

liesl5858 3 years ago from United Kingdom

Congratulations on reaching your 50th hub. I think your tips and guides are great to follow thank you for sharing. Voted up and pinned.

David Stone 2 years ago from New York City

I found it interesting how you drew the balance between community and great content. That's where the magic is, joining other creative people in the mutual pursuit of being the best we can be.

You energetic writing style is infectious.

rebekahELLE 2 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Thanks David! What a great way to start my morning seeing your comment on this particular hub. HubPages has a wonderful community and I have always admired the staff and the two Pauls who have manned the helm through some choppy waters at times. It's a great place to have your writing published and I'm excited about the future direction of HP. Enjoy!

David Stone 2 years ago from New York City

I'm looking forward to it too, with 348 lenses being transferred, learning the ropes and making new friends. Your hub set a perfectly positive note.

SusanDeppner 2 years ago from Arkansas USA

What a joy to read! There's so much negativity floating around out there. Love your positive, upbeat tone. I'm enjoying HubPages, too, and look forward to a good, long relationship here.

rebekahELLE 2 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Thanks Susan! HP is a great place to publish your writing and the community is very supportive. I suggest reading a lot of hubs and getting to know some of the writers through their writing rather than spending too much time in the forums. You'll fall in love with many of the writers here. There is a wealth of interesting, fascinating people sharing their talent here. Best to you!

billybuc 2 years ago from Olympia, WA

It's the people for me. I love this community. Period. :)

kalaivani 2 years ago

Hi Rebekah,Thank you so much for sharing your experience with HP. I am new to writing. I am from India, love to learn lot of things from you and other hubbers before I could post my own.

rebekahELLE 2 years ago from Tampa Bay Author

Thanks for reading, kalaivani. I'm happy that this hub has helped you and welcome to the world of online writing. I've received a significant number of views from India, glad to see you here. Best to you with your writing.

peachpurple 24 months ago from Home Sweet Home

is it true that just adding the amazon or ebay capsules into your article, you can earn money? Why i don't see any earning on mine?

rebekahELLE 24 months ago from Tampa Bay Author

Hi peachpurple, thanks for reading. This particular hub was written a few years ago when it was easier to make sales with Amazon. I've never used Ebay, but I know hubbers make money with their Ebay capsules. Now it's more important to make sure that the products displayed are matched to the content in order not to appear spammy.

Some hubs simply aren't product related. It's best not to add the capsules if there is no direct relation to the content. Make sure you have your account set up properly with your affiliate code. Best to you.

Stargrrl 23 months ago

Hubpages has community, and that sets it apart from other writing sites.

rebekahELLE 23 months ago from Tampa Bay Author

Stargrrl, you are so right. HP has a very supportive and inspiring community which helps to make it the best place to publish online. HP also has a supportive and community oriented staff. Thanks for reading!

easylearningweb 19 months ago

Happiness is doing what you love! I love it too. :-)

LaurieNunley517 11 months ago from Deep South

What a nice article! I haven't done much with HP because I really didn't know what I was doing. Your positive experience here makes me want to look into writing too and your style is so clear and personal! Thank you.